The stone pathways of the Yuan estate twisted through gardens and training yards. Qingyue walked ahead, guiding Lin Hao with light steps, her long dark hair trailing behind her. Han Yichen followed closely, eyes sharp, trying to mask the irritation in his tone with forced charm.
"Qingyue," he said, stepping beside her, "this courtyard reminds me of the one near the Northern Garrison. I'd love to show you sometime."
She nodded faintly, then glanced toward Lin Hao. "Lin Hao, didn't you mention your courtyard had been redesigned recently?"
Han Yichen clenched his jaw but forced a smile. "You've always had an eye for architecture, Qingyue. Have you ever considered building something with your own hands?"
She stepped just slightly closer to Lin Hao. "If I ever do, I'll make sure Lin Hao helps. He has good instincts for design."
Her voice was light, but each word made Han Yichen's smile falter further. He tried again—reaching out to touch her elbow as they passed a sculpture—but she stepped aside smoothly, pretending to admire the relic.
"You always keep your distance," he said with a slight edge.
She didn't respond.
That silence was enough to ignite something in him.
Moments later, with no one else near, he stepped in front of Lin Hao and blocked his path.
"You're bold," he said.
Lin Hao raised an eyebrow. "What?"
"You think no one sees it?" Han Yichen's smile was now gone. "You're just a civilian. No background, no power, yet you linger around Qingyue like it's your right."
Qingyue's voice cut in, cold and clear. "Han Yichen, what Lin Hao and I speak about isn't your concern."
Han Yichen didn't turn to her. His focus stayed on Lin Hao.
"You hide behind her," he said, low and sharp. "I've seen your type before. Opportunist. Weakling."
Lin Hao chuckled. "So what now? You want to fight because I'm standing next to a girl you like?"
Han Yichen's nostrils flared. "A duel. Right now."
Lin Hao tilted his head. "And if I say no?"
"You'll leave this estate. Crawl out on your knees and beg forgiveness."
Lin Hao laughed again. "You think I'd accept terms that one-sided?"
Han Yichen sneered. "I'm in the second realm of body cultivation. You're barely at the first. Be glad I'm being merciful."
"Oh?" Lin Hao's eyes narrowed with amusement. "Then let's balance the stakes. If I win, you kneel, call me father, and apologize."
"You—!" Han Yichen's voice rose, but then he forced a grin. "Fine. When you lose, don't cry."
From a nearby balcony, three pairs of eyes had been watching silently.
General Yuan turned toward his father, his face darkening. "This is your disciple? Where did you even find him? He's arrogant and far too familiar with Qingyue."
Master Yuan didn't blink. "You know nothing about that boy. If you understood even a fraction of what he's done… you wouldn't be speaking so carelessly."
General Yuan frowned. His father was rarely this direct.
Yu Lian stepped forward, her expression calm. "You should watch carefully, Ji. I've known Lin Hao for years. He's given Qingyue more than you'll ever realize. Perhaps today you'll begin to understand."
General Yuan narrowed his eyes, glancing back down at the courtyard.
The duel was about to begin.